MARINE CORPS AIR STATION YUMA, Ariz. - The 50th annual Marine Corps Air Station Yuma Airshow and Open House, celebrating the centennial of Marine Aviation is scheduled for Saturday, March 17.

This year's event will showcase the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. According to the legend, some thought it was a giant eagle, others envisioned a hawk. When it took to the skies, the earth trembled from the thunder of its great wings, creating the legend. This will be the team's 58th show season. Further information on the full line-up of performers will be provided at a later date.

MCAS Yuma's largest community relations event of the year will also give visitors the opportunity to interact with all the men and women who proudly wear the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. Make no mistake, our nation is at war and the Marines and Sailors of MCAS Yuma have answered the call. The U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard will be on the ready to meet and greet attendees during the day and share their military experiences.

Gates will open at 9 a.m. and the first live performance of the day begins at 11 a.m. This event is free and open to the public. Parking will be available on the air station to include handicap accessible parking. Food, drink, military memorabilia and other great items will be available for sale throughout the day as well as fun, interactive activities for children and adults. Specific parking details will be provided at a later date.

Media are invited to attend this year's show and will be credentialed through the MCAS Yuma Public Affairs Office. Credentialed media will have a special parking area, a chalet for keeping their equipment stored, access to prime coverage locations and food/drinks throughout the show. Additionally, credentialed media will receive access to VIP guests and performers for interviews.

For more information about the 50th annual MCAS Yuma Airshow and Open House, please contact MCAS Yuma Public Affairs at (928)269-2275 or visit www.yumaairshow.com. By January 2012, this website will offer the full schedule of events, performer details, directions and parking information.

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Media Note: Media are invited to cover the event March 17. All media need to be credentialed NLT February 29. Submit your organization, name and contact information to [email protected] NLT February 27 to RSVP. Media will need to meet at the North Gate no later than 7:45 a.m. the day of the event. Contact Cpl. Jolene Bopp at 928-269-3682 for further details.

Supporting Our Troops

Any profits generated from sales at the 2012 Yuma Air Show will be used towards support programs and activities for the local marines, sailors and their families.

Opportunity for Local Charity Organizations

In 2012 the MCAS Yuma Air show is inviting local charity organizations to man various locations throughout the show. This unique opportunity can lead to thousands of dollars in fund raising for local organizations who choose to participate. If you are a local charity organization are are interested in participating in this year’s Yuma Air show please contact Kitty Hummer with MCCS at 928-269-3107 or Patrick O’Grady of Airshow Vendors at 562-490-0808.